What’s New for the 2025 Ford Explorer

Shortly after its debut in 1991, the Ford Explorer may not have originated the market shift to SUVs as the default family vehicle, but it certainly shifted it into a higher gear. Replacing the Bronco II and based on the Ranger pickup truck at the time, the Explorer epitomized what people found so exciting about SUVs in terms of size, versatility, and capability. Its sales success was such that it is cumulatively the best-selling SUV in history. For the 2025 model year, the Explorer entered the mid-cycle refresh phase of its 6th design generation, and Dick Smith Ford wants to tell you what’s new. 

From the outside, the 2025 changes are apparent in its revised taillights, a larger front grille, and sleeker headlights. The trim of the grille is unique to each trim level, which has been simplified in the 2025 model year to four: 

• Active 
• ST-Line 
• Platinum  
• ST 

Significant changes are found within, featuring a completely new dashboard that delivers a much more upscale experience. Base models no longer have small screens. Instead, a 13.2-inch center touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are standard across the model line. Behind the center screen, we see the introduction of the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system. This Android-based system supports wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, it includes built-in Google Maps navigation and utilizes Google Assistant for voice recognition. 

All models above the Active trim are now available by subscription with Ford’s BlueCruise system, which enables hands-free highway driving on pre-mapped highways. There are over 130,000 pre-mapped miles in North America.  

Three of Explorer’s trim levels are powered by Ford’s 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4, which produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired to a 10-speed transmission, and rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard. Configured as such, the Explorer has an EPA-estimated city/highway/combined mpg of 20/29/24. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available for $2,000 and has only a minor effect on highway mileage, with 20/27/33. 

Standard on the performance-focused ST model and available on the Platinum variant is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with the same 10-speed transmission. For most models, the EPA-estimated mpg remains consistent for both RWD and AWD configurations at 18/25/21. The previously optional Class III trailer tow package is now standard across all Explorers, providing a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.  

With a starting MSRP of $41.350, the Explorer has remained true to its mission of providing families with space, versatility, and an overall enjoyable experience on the road. Browse the Dick Smith Ford inventory for the 2025 Explorer of your choice and visit Dick Smith Ford in Columbia for a test drive.